The best tinted lip balms for colour and protection
Updated: 14/08/2026
Tinted lip balm can be an excellent way to achieve softer, more hydrated lips combined with a subtle hint of colour and have become a beauty bag staple and a great alternative to lipstick and lip gloss, especially on days when you want a more pared-back makeup look, but still want a pop of colour visible on your lips. Sounds interesting? We’ve rounded up the very best tinted lip balms to try.
What to look for in a tinted lip balm
Key ingredients in tinted balms include nourishing Vitamin E and shea butter to help deeply hydrate and moisturise your lips. Tinted lip balms are available in a number of finishes from shimmery to glossy. With all-natural ingredients and added SPF, you’ll be sure to find a tinted lip balm that ticks all your boxes.
How do I choose a tinted lip balm shade?
Consider your undertone and natural lip colour, as both can influence how a shade appears. Sheer formulas are forgiving and buildable, making them easy to adjust until you reach your preferred intensity.
How long does tinted lip balm last?
Tinted balms usually fade more quickly than lipsticks or stains, particularly after eating and drinking. Apply two light layers or pair yours with a lip liner to help the colour remain visible for longer.
Can tinted lip balm be applied to dry lips?
Yes. Smooth away loose, flaky skin gently before application, then apply the balm directly. Nourishing formulas add moisture and colour together, although very dry lips may benefit from an un-tinted lip balm underneath.
Which Are The Best Tinted Lip Balms?
1. Rimmel London Oh My Gloss! Butter Me Up Lip Butter Balm 15ml (Various Shades)
£9.99
Best For: Glossy hydration
Blending the comfort of a balm with the shine of a gloss, this buttery formula leaves lips looking smooth and plump. Squalane, shea butter and avocado oil provide lasting moisture, while the sheer tint and sweet vanilla scent make it an effortless everyday option.
2. Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tinted Balm 2.5g (Various Shades)
£33.00
Best For: A personalised tint
This pH-responsive balm adapts to your natural lip tone, creating a soft tint with a glass-like finish. Enriched with jojoba oil, ceramides and a peptide, the nourishing formula moisturises while helping the lips appear smoother and fuller.
3. ICONIC London Butter Glaze Lip Balm (Various Shades)
Recommended Retail Price: £19.00Current price: £12.35
Best For: A plumped, glazed finish
Give lips a glossy glaze with this peptide-powered tinted balm. Shea butter and vitamin E help soften and condition, while the smoothing formula minimises the appearance of fine lines. Choose from a juicy red or shimmering baby-pink tint.
4. KIKO Milano Coloured Lip Balm 3g (Various Shades)
£6.99
Best For: Everyday sheer colour
Ideal for adding a subtle tint on the go, this creamy lip balm glides on with a smooth, high-shine finish. Shea butter and vitamins A, C and E help nourish the lips, while the buildable shades offer an easy alternative to lipstick.
5. Clinique Almost Lipstick 1.9g - Black Honey
Best For: Buildable berry colour
Black Honey combines transparent berry pigment with the comfortable feel of a balm. The lightweight colour complements the lips’ natural tone and can be layered from a sheer wash to a richer finish, leaving them feeling moisturised with a soft sheen.
6. Hello Sunday Tinted Lip Balm SPF50 15ml - Rose Bloom
Best For: High sun protection
Combining sheer berry colour with SPF50 protection, this glossy balm is made for sunny days. Shea butter and hyaluronic acid help hydrate and smooth the lips, while the lightweight, non-sticky texture makes regular reapplication feel effortless.
7. Anastasia Beverly Hills Kiss Theory Lip Balm (Various Shades)
£17.00
Best For: High-impact colour
Offering the pigment of a lipstick with the comfort of a balm, this gel formula delivers buildable colour and glossy shine. Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and candelilla wax help lips feel soft and conditioned, while the lightweight texture remains comfortable without feeling sticky.
8. Yves Saint Laurent Loveshine Candy Glow Lip Balm (Various Shades)
Recommended Retail Price: £39.00Current price: £33.15
Best For: A luxury pH-adapting glow
This buttery balm responds to the lips’ natural pH to create a personalised sheer tint. Maracuja oil, shea butter and jojoba butter provide up to 24 hours of hydration, complemented by a dewy finish that leaves lips looking smooth and luminous.
9. NYX Professional Makeup Smushy, Matte Lip Balm, Soft Diffused Colour, Matte Finish
Recommended Retail Price: £7.99Current price: £5.99
Best For: Soft matte colour
Made for those who prefer their tint without the shine, this cushiony balm creates a softly diffused matte finish. Mochi rice powder and sugar ceramides support its smooth, lightweight feel, while the colour builds easily from a sheer wash to a more saturated look.
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